Look at Normal People by Sally Rooney. The breakups aren't based on lies; they are based on miscommunication driven by class anxiety and trauma. The misunderstanding isn't a plot device; it is the logical conclusion of who these people are. For a romantic storyline to feel earned, the darkest moment must feel unavoidable, not random.
The most criticized trope in romantic storylines is the "misunderstanding" that breaks the couple up before the finale (e.g., "I saw you hugging your ex, so I’m moving to Antarctica!"). When done poorly, it’s contrived. When done well, it is inevitable. SexArt.24.08.04.Marceline.Moreno.Ardent.Embrace...